I've got the flu – now what?

Despite your best efforts to stay healthy this winter, you might still be hit with the contagious flu virus. Here’s how to bounce back.

1. Act fast

At the first sign of a stuffy nose, use a decongestant spray or tablet and consider using an antihistamine. A mucolytic is also recommended as it helps to keep the mucus in your nose and throat flowing. Given that flu is a viral infection, antibiotics will not provide any benefit and their inappropriate use only contributes to worsening antibiotic resistance.

2. Take two and call me in the morning

Yes, good old paracetamol is usually all it takes to ease aches and pains while your body fights off the worst of the infection.

3. Consume lots of fluids

Your body loses a lot of fluid when you’re sick due to fever, sweating, coughing and sneezing. It’s important to replace this fluid to prevent dehydration.

4. Get some bed rest

Let your body focus on healing itself, rather than expending your precious energy on other activities. Two to five days of bed rest will suffice for most people, depending on the severity of the symptoms.

Bed rest also helps contain the virus. The flu poses a major health threat to certain individuals, particularly infants, seniors and those with compromised immune systems. You might feel noble heading to work with the flu, but there’s a good chance you’ll transfer the virus to others who might be far worse off than you if they succumb to it.

5. Try this

Our homegrown wunderkind, rooibos, has a number of excellent antibacterial and antiviral properties that strengthen the immune system. Combine it with raw honey for an extra healthy kick – an antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal wonder that tastes delicious.

6. When to see a doctor

Bed rest and OTC medications will cure most winter ailments, but in some cases it’s best to seek medical attention. It’s important to visit your doctor if you experience the following:

• Difficulty breathing or chest pain.
• A persistent fever.
• Persistent vomiting, particularly if you can’t keep fluids down.
• Symptoms that aren't improving or are worsening after a few days.
• Severe pain when swallowing.

You should also seek medical attention if you are at higher risk for severe infection, for example if you have other medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or HIV, or if you are pregnant or elderly.

7. Can I exercise when I’ve got the flu?

It’s best to avoid all forms of physical exertion when you have the flu, particularly if you have chesty symptoms. Your body is more vulnerable at this time and overexertion can cause permanent damage to your heart.